Fiji’s first batch of COVID-19 vaccines arrived in the country this evening.
The country’s first consignment of the Oxford University Astra Zeneca vaccine landed at the Nadi International Airport via flight FJ1910 from Sydney, Australia this evening.
Health Ministry Permanent Secretary Dr James Fong reportedly said that they were still finalising the list of eligible persons, but that it would be administered to all persons over 18 years of age, with the frontline workers first in line to be vaccinated.
Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete, Minister for Health also reportedly said that the COVAX Facility had committed to provide Fiji 100,800 doses, some of which would be provided as early as the first quarter this year, and the balance, in the second quarter.
The Astra Zeneca vaccine is administered in two doses, given between four to 12 weeks and is said to have an efficiency level of 82.4 per cent.
Photo: Fiji Airways